Hope Life Summer Graduation 2016 Special

Summer Graduation 2016 Special

Hope Life Summer Graduation 2016 | Edition 7

If you have a story to share, get in touch at hopelife@hope.ac.uk

Summer Graduation

2016 Special

Hope Life

Hope Life

Summer Graduatio

n 2016 | Edition 7

Graduation 2016 | Edition 7

Contents If you have a story

to share, get in touch

at hopelife@hope.ac.

uk

#classof2016 Sanjee Perera_Child @SanjeeChild Is always struck by how beautiful @LiverpoolHopeUK summer #graduations are. Congratulations #Classof2016 #Liverpool

4 Hats off to graduates

Liverpool Hope Uni @LiverpoolHopeUK @bearieboo Have a fantastic day! #proudtobehope

Peter Angell @pete_angell

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Double joy for Lauren

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James hits the right notes

Our @HopeSportExSci graduates from yesterday’s ceremony. Well done everyone, here’s to the future @LiverpoolHopeUK

Gill Beavon @gillyjoy49 Thank you @LiverpoolHopeUK

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Honorary Degrees

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Beyond Graduation

A wonderful 3 years study and a fabulous graduation ceremony today. #ilovehope

Top of the class for student satisfaction

Welcome from Professor Pillay As I watched the Class of 2016 walk down the steps of the Cathedral, applauded by tutors, friends and family, I felt a real sense that the city of Liverpool was celebrating alongside us.

Liverpool is a great place for students.

Those of you from Liverpool will have experienced the city in a new way during your studies, enjoying its vibrant social life, sport, rich collection of museums and galleries, and its music. Many of you who came from outside the city may have chosen to make Liverpool your home; a place to build a career, to pursue further study, to raise a family.

Our Class of 2016 joined half a million students across the UK in completing the National Student Survey. As well as ranking us top in the North West, you also placed us fourth in the country (excluding small and specialist Higher Education institutions) for overall student satisfaction.

Nationally, we also rank: • Top for assessment and feedback • Top two for academic support • Top three for teaching

A place where you have been welcomed from your first day in town.

• Top four for overall student satisfaction

At Liverpool Hope, we - like our city - pride ourselves on our warm welcome and strong pastoral care. That’s why it was incredibly heartening to find you named us best in the North West for overall student satisfaction, teaching, assessment and feedback, academic support, organisation and management, learning resources, and personal development in this year’s National Student Survey.

We are also within the top 10 for organisation and management, learning resources, and personal development. In the North West of England, we topped seven out of the eight categories. Our overall student satisfaction rate of 92 per cent is up 3 per cent on last year and above the benchmark of 86 per cent.

Of the many people I spoke to during Graduation week, I heard again and again how the individual care, support and encouragement of our tutors made a real difference to their lives.

Liverpool Hope’s Students’ Union satisfaction rate is also above the national average and places them in the top four in the North West.

This marks a successful year for them, in which they were shortlisted for an NUS award and the SU Vice President for Education was shortlisted for International Students’ Officer of the Year.

Wherever in the world you will go, you go with both a sound education and a real understanding of the need for care and compassion for others.

I urge you to seek truth, beauty and goodness in all that you do. It will not be easy. But it will make a difference.

Graduation is not the end. It is the beginning of unimaginable new opportunities.

I wish you all the very best.

Professor Gerald J. Pillay Vice-Chancellor & Rector

Hope Life is published by Liverpool Hope University, Hope Park, L16 9JD. Tel: 0151 291 3219 Email: hopelife@hope.ac.uk Website: www.hope.ac.uk/hopelife

By completing the survey, you have helped us to understand where our strengths are and where we can improve the university experience for both prospective and current students. Thank you!

For more information: https://www.hope.ac.uk/ gateway/students/nationalstudentsurvey/

Hope Life is designed in house at Liverpool Hope University and printed by Media Group.

Cover image: Hope graduates celebrating in the sunshine at Liverpool Anglican Cathedral.

The views expressed in the magazine are those of the contributors and do not necessarily represent those of Liverpool Hope University.

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Hats off to our Class of 2016 The sun was shining on the Class of 2016, as they celebrated the culmination of all their hard work.

This year, graduates made the most of the good weather on our giant deckchairs, enjoyed celebration lunches in the Arbour Room and caught up with tutors and friends during refreshments in the Library Quad. The traditional hat throw was another great success. Our PGCE and PGDE celebrations took place in Hope Chapel.

The city’s magnificent Anglican Cathedral hosted this year’s ceremonies, which saw Honorary Degrees awarded to Lord-Lieutenant of Merseyside, Dame Lorna Muirhead and the University of Malta’s Head of Geography, Professor John Schembri. Each graduation ceremony also included music from the University’s Voices of Hope.

On the first day of graduations, our Class of 2016 Thunderclap campaign sent a simultaneous congratulations message and link to a specially created video featuring more than 70 members of staff.

Our hat throw videos reached a massive combined audience of 37,000 on Facebook and Instagram, while our procession videos were viewed 6,500 times on Instagram alone.

The ceremonies were also streamed live via the Liverpool Hope University YouTube channel.

For links to photographs and DVD purchases, visit: www.hope.ac.uk/graduation A selection of photographs can also be found at www.flickr.com/LiverpoolHopeUniversity

@LiverpoolHopeUK

Celebrations reach quarter of a million people

www.youtube.com/liverpoolhopeuni1

Staff, friends and family helped give our graduates a collective congratulations message, with a social media stunt that reached more than 210,000 people in one day.

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Instagram was also a big favourite, with students and guests using our Instagram frame props on the Gateway lawn.

liverpoolhopeuk

Visit www.facebook.com/LiverpoolHopeUniversity

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Graduate Success Stories

Double joy for Lauren Graduation day was a double celebration for graduate Lauren Wallace, after her boyfriend Adam got down on one knee and proposed on campus.

Talking about the day, Lauren said: “Graduation day was a huge achievement and a very proud day - it was even more special to have my family, and my boyfriend and his family with me too. It was a fantastic day of celebrating my degree and the completion of my four-year course, and to recognise the people who helped me get through it all.

“I honestly didn’t think it could get better until my boyfriend got down on one knee by the water fountain! He knew this spot was where I had been setting my heart on getting a 6

graduation photo by since I started Hope in 2012 - an idyllic spot!”

Lauren, who studied Primary Teaching with Special Educational Needs (QTS), added: “Liverpool Hope has been the best place for me to learn and develop through the past four years. I have met friends for life, secured a job and been in the best city - Liverpool - which I now call home, and I also met my husband to be! My graduation day was by far the best day of my life to date!”

We would like to wish Lauren and Adam a very happy future together.

Rising through the ranks of higher education Members of the North Wales Police Force and Merseyside Police celebrated being awarded an MSc in Police Leadership.

been able to influence thinking in relation to gender issues and promotion processes in North Wales, and have shared my findings with other police forces nationally.”

Assistant Chief Constable of North Wales Police Richard Debicki attended the ceremony to offer his congratulations to Chief Inspector Mark Williams, Chief Inspector Nicholas Evans, Superintendent Sian Beck and Superintendent Alex Goss.

Chief Inspector Mark Williams said: “North Wales Police has gained from my experiences; I play a leading role in leadership development for the force and I feel that this qualification gives me a sound understanding of the subject and real credibility in the role. The outcomes from my dissertation have fed directly into the force leadership training programme, meaning my findings are being shared with aspiring future police leaders.”

The MSc programme is delivered by Liverpool Hope University’s Business School and allows students working in the police force to combine theory with research into contemporary policing.

Superintendent Sian Beck won the Business School Prize for top performing Postgraduate student.

Superintendent Beck said: “I am absolutely delighted to have won the prize and thank the tutors at Liverpool Hope University and Chief Officers in North Wales Police for supporting me through the course. My dissertation explored the barriers faced by women police constables when seeking promotion to the rank of sergeant, which was timely with 2015 marking 100 years of women in British policing. I have

Assistant Chief Constable Debicki congratulated the new graduates, saying: “They have demonstrated high levels of drive, commitment and determination in their achievements which is a real credit to them. Policing by its very nature is a demanding career. It should not be forgotten that this work has been an addition to their already challenging roles as senior managers, where they make key decisions on a daily basis to ensure North Wales remains a safe place to live and work. It was especially pleasing to learn of the success of Sian Beck who was awarded the Business School Prize. On behalf of North Wales Police and the Chief Officers, I would like to congratulate them all on their achievements.”

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Graduate Success Stories

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James hits the right notes for Topshop Fine Art graduate James Taylor landed his dream job, after his degree show work was spotted by Topshop talent scouts.

James, from Burnley, uses paint, digital prints and lighting to create immersive and disorientating sculptural installations.

seeing my work, they invited me to interview for the position of Creative Designer. It was a rigorous interview process, but I was delighted to make it through.

“Richard said that he liked the multiple uses of lighting and mixed media in my work, which are essential when creating displays in Topshop. I’m so excited to start. I also received positive feedback about my degree show from various curators and artists, and it was great to find out that the Art in Liverpool blog said that my piano installation ‘put a smile on everyone’s faces’.”

Topshop bosses were wowed by the 21-year-old’s final year exhibition, which used site-specific installations to explore psychedelia in the 1960s and 1990s - and included a specially modified light-up piano.

“Studying Fine Art at Liverpool Hope was amazing. The support from staff and other students provided me with the experience I needed in order to begin my career.”

He added: “Studying Fine Art at Liverpool Hope was amazing. The support from staff and other students provided me with the experience I needed in order to begin my career.

James studied at St Christopher’s CE High School and Sixth Form in Accrington before coming to Liverpool Hope, and is inspired by the work of artists such as Katharina Grosse, Jim Lambie and Karla Black.

Topshop’s Oxford Street window displays are seen as the epitome of cutting-edge design and in the past have even included Kate Moss as a human mannequin.

James will be based in Liverpool, where he will create visual installations and displays, and have the opportunity to travel and create works for stores nationwide.

“It was a rigorous interview process, but I was delighted to make it through.”

James said: “Topshop’s Creative Designers, Richard Ellis and Hannah Williams, came to the degree show and after

The University’s large studio spaces enabled me to to create work with few limitations, and staff and graduate assistants supported me in developing my ideas into a physical form.”

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Graduate Success Stories

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Award-winning teacher As well as graduating with a PGCE, Georgia Abbott was also named Student Teacher of the Year at the Liverpool Echo Schools Awards.

Georgia, 24, gained a First Class BA in Fine Art at Liverpool Hope before studying for her PGCE. She undertook her first placement at Rainhill School, and her second at Holly Lodge.

“Teaching for me is at the forefront of everything. The highlight of my course was taking that first step into teaching a class on my own and knowing I was going to make a difference to students’ lives through art education.

It was at Holly Lodge where Georgia’s fellow teachers and pupils became the driving force behind her nomination for the Echo Schools Awards. Georgia was presented with her award at a ceremony hosted by the Liverpool Echo at the University’s Creative Campus.

“A stand-out trainee teacher who was born to teach due to her ability to stretch, challenge and bring out the best in pupils of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.”

The judges said that Georgia was nominated because she was, “a stand out trainee teacher who was born to teach due to her ability to stretch, challenge and bring out the best in pupils of all ages, abilities and backgrounds,” and that “the pupils are individually reaping the rewards from her planning, preparation, and delivery of exciting and stimulating projects and lessons as they become more confident and proficient artists.”

They added: “This inspirational person has brought a diverse range of artistic talents, enviable skills, a tireless work ethic and an infectious positivity to the department and wider school, which is incomparable to previous candidates.”

Georgia said: “David Graham and Jane Napier from Holly Lodge nominated me for the Echo Award, which I was really privileged to receive. I was shocked and proud to find out I had even been shortlisted - never mind winning the award.

I felt like all of my hard work really paid off through my teaching and this was an extra bonus to show that what I’m doing has made a difference to not only my students, but my colleagues, which was really humbling.

“I chose to stay at Hope for my PGCE as I knew what support, guidance and commitment I would receive from tutors and other members of staff. I had already experienced a high level of dedication from my undergraduate tutors, which had given me the motivation to become a teacher myself.

“Supporting and challenging them to reach aspirations and future goals, seeing how many children develop throughout their school life, and knowing that I have been a part of that makes everything worthwhile.

“Teaching for me is at the forefront of everything. The highlight of my course was taking that first step into teaching a class on my own and knowing I was going to make a difference to students’ lives through art education.”

“I currently have a teaching job at Childwall Sports and Science Academy, which I am really excited about. I’m looking forward to working with the fantastic art department and making many dreams come true.”

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Firm foundations for further study Neil Buckley, Mathematics and Computer Science PhD Neil studied for his BSc, MSc and PhD at Liverpool Hope.

Neil and Dean of Science Professor Atulya Nagar are working with Tento Technologies to develop new cybersecurity algorithms and technology using visual cryptography for smartphones, which could rid the world of remembered passwords.

“My PhD and ongoing research concern a specialised area of cryptography called secret sharing, whereby a message is concealed by splitting it into separate parts. Liverpool Hope is one of the few places in the world where this kind of research is done. It is an area combining algorithmic design, programming and mathematics, for which my previous degrees prepared me well.

“I developed my scientific programming and research skills during my MSc, as well as machine learning, metaheuristics, mobile development and Matlab prototyping. This gave me a running start when I began doctoral research.

“I’ve been very fortunate to work with world experts Professor Nagar and Visiting Professor S. Arumugam - a leading authority on graph theory.

Professor Nagar also encouraged me to build relationships with industries to apply my research, and I am now helping a software company to refine its password protection system. Working with Professor Nagar, I am also applying for a patent for an algorithm that I developed to transmit messages with extremely high security, having wide applications in industry and commerce.”

Afusat Ejide Badamasi, MA Disability Studies International student Afusat enjoyed her time at Liverpool Hope so much that she is going on to study for a PhD/EdD in the Department of Disability Studies.

“Liverpool Hope University is more than an educational institution.

Passing through the Department of Disability Studies is an experience that every prospective student of Disability Studies should avail themselves of.

“The serene environment and cordial social climate is most conducive for optimal learning outcomes. Dr David Bolt and the highly dedicated Disability Studies/SEN team patiently nurtured my peers and me into the Disability Studies culture.

“The entire staff - writing mentors, librarians, IT personnel and course 12

mates received and related with me warmly, always reaching out in response to my inquiries.

“The department’s symbiotic approach to research work impressed on me a sense of fulfilment, acknowledging that ‘we all need one another’. The multiracial diversity of staff and learners relating as one widened my perspective. The interdisciplinary nature of Disability Studies makes it all-encompassing and more interesting. Now, I have come to the conclusion that to create a more inclusive society what we require is not just laws, but attitudinal change.

“I can’t wait to commence my PhD/ EdD in Disability Studies, at the best place to undergo such a programme - Liverpool Hope University.”

A change in direction Donna Ashton, Education/Early Childhood BA that the aspects I had enjoyed most were those I thought would be my least preferred. I believe this was partly due to the good quality of teaching and how the subjects were delivered.

“I studied through the Network of Hope at St Mary’s College Blackburn. I am a single mother of four children, and I juggled studying with working and taking care of my family.

“One of the highlights has been the quality of teaching. When I began, I thought I would prefer some aspects of the course more than others, but by the end of the first year I found

“The level of support has been excellent. There have been times when I have needed support and guidance or extra time for essays due to things that have cropped up - as they do when you have a family! Although I was not based in Liverpool, I have always felt a part of Liverpool Hope. I have also found the online Careers Centre very helpful.

“I am hoping to gain some work experience before deciding whether to do a PGCE or a Masters in Education. This degree has opened up the pathway for me to further my education and career. The flexibility of daytime and evening courses has made it possible for a working parent like myself to fit in study with work commitments and family life.”

Natalie Kirby, Chemistry PGCE “I was working as a Membership Manager for a Trade Association previously, but the job meant I was away a lot and so it wasn’t very family friendly. I decided it was time for a career change and teaching felt like a natural progression.

A job in teaching offered the perfect balance between a career and family life for working mum Natalie Kirby.

“There were many late nights and tears, and I’d say the year is not for the faint hearted, but it was all worth it and my family are very proud. In September, I’ll be starting as a chemistry teacher at Holy Family Catholic High School in Thornton. It’s quite a daunting prospect, but I’ve met the team at the school and can’t wait to get started.”

Shelley O’Sullivan, Accounting and Finance After years of working for the civil service, Shelley O’Sullivan decided to return to studying and was thrilled when she was accepted on to Hope’s Accounting and Finance course.

“I’d been thinking about further education for a while, when I drove past Hope and thought I could imagine myself going to university here. I spoke with one of the admissions team about whether I would be able to join the course because I got my A-levels so long ago, and was thrilled when they accepted me.

“It seems like the decision was the right one, as once I settled into the university environment, I really got into the course and was delighted to be awarded the Business School Prize for the Best Performing Student in Accounting and Finance.”

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Hope Honorary Doctorates 2016 Two inspiring individuals were presented with honorary degrees during Graduation week.

Former Royal College of Midwives President and Merseyside’s first female Lord Lieutenant Dame Lorna Muirhead DBE, was awarded the title of Doctor of Humane Letters (honoris causa) in recognition of her outstanding service to Merseyside during her time as Lord Lieutenant, and her 40-year commitment to the health and welfare of mothers and babies.

She also read out the poem Hopes and Fears for Art by writer and social activist William Morris, which she said was close to her own heart when she was a young graduate.

Professor John A. Schembri, Head of the Department of Geography at the University of Malta, was awarded the Doctor of Education (honoris causa) in recognition of his contribution to Geography education at both university and school level. Professor Schrembi works closely with Liverpool Hope’s Department of Geography to organise field trips and collaborations.

Professor Schembri spoke warmly about the strong relationship between Liverpool Hope and the University of Malta, saying: “I am grateful to Liverpool Hope University for this award and for having maintained relations with the University of Malta for more than a decade through a number of research, pedagogic and publication initiatives from the initial Erasmus Exchange Programme. The joint field sessions, held annually in Malta, cement these relations, assist in giving both sets of students an international dimension to their studies, and provide cultural bridges between the young geographers.

During the ceremony, Professor Pillay read a message from Buckingham Palace congratulating Dame Lorna on her award. Dame Lorna told the students and their families that it would be a first if she hadn’t delivered somebody in the congregation stating: “You probably won’t remember me, so there is no need to wave!”

She said: “Since I started this job [as Lord Lieutenant], I have a greater understanding of how society works and the people who work tirelessly to make life here good. The national and international news may dismay us at times, but there is a big society of young and old doing wonderful things all over our county and beyond to support their communities and each other.”

Dame Lorna advised students to ‘take all that you have learned to make it the best that it can be for you, your family, your community and indeed the world. Responsibility for how the world works will soon be the responsibility of your generation, to mould and shape it as you can. What you have learned, and what you have been exposed to here, will serve you well as you enter the challenging world’.

“I dedicate this award to my seniors, tutors, and colleagues in the faculties, departments and administration of the Alma Maters where I worked and studied in Malta and the UK, to the members of the Geography Department at Liverpool Hope University, soon my additional Alma Mater, and my friends and family for encouraging me to follow the academic pathways. The moral support I received from my son and my late wife was crucial in following my career.”

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Prize Giving Service

Helen Heeney, Psychology Mature student Helen Heeney (pictured right) not only achieved a First Class degree, but also received the British Psychological Society Prize for the Best Performing Student in Psychology.

“I had taken time out from a nursing career while my children were young, and as my youngest was approaching secondary school the time felt right for me to return to study. Psychology was the subject I was most interested in and on visiting Liverpool Hope, I knew this University would be the best fit for me. The Psychology Department felt dynamic and outward-looking, because all of the lecturers are actively engaged with research in a good range of disciplines. At the same time, the University - unlike some of the larger institutions - felt somewhere I wouldn’t be completely anonymous.

“My greatest achievement would have to be slogging away to get to the end of the three years, knowing I can finish what I started. The needs of my children always 16

come first and at times it has seemed too hard, but the confidence I have gained alongside my degree is priceless and is now impacting other areas of my life. My IT skills are beyond recognition, as I came from a place of absolutely no knowledge. When I began the degree surrounded by so many younger people who were so confident with IT, I never thought I would be able to keep up. I am proud of how far I have come with these skills and now feel a part of the 21st century.

“After Graduation, my first step will be carrying out some research assistant work at Hope. Psychology is such an exciting field and I am looking forward to working alongside staff, learning more about research processes and developing the knowledge base.”

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Prize Giving Service David Seow, Media and Communication BA Studying in a foreign country can be a challenge, but for David Seow, moving to Liverpool allowed him to flourish. As well as graduating with a BA in Media and Communication, David picked up the prize for Best Performing Student in Single Honours Media and Communication.

“Having attended an international school with an American-based curriculum, I imagined myself pursuing further education in the US, and planned on attending a college that had an exchange program with the UK. However, after failing to get on the course I’d applied to, I considered full-time study in England. That’s when I discovered Hope. My parents and I agreed it sounded like a fantastic option, with its rich history, ecumenical roots, and subjects I was interested in.

Acceptance onto the Media and

Communication course felt like a dream come true and I relished the independence and freedom university offered. However being far away from home was difficult, and led to increasing anxiety and feelings of isolation.

“During this time, the Student Development and Well-Being Team were invaluable, as well as finding a community I felt at home with at Liverpool One Church. Over the next two years, I went from strength to strength. Through my degree I’ve gained confidence in myself, grown as an individual, and increased my skills as a photographer. At the end of my course I was proud to present my original research into the British news coverage of the Syrian refugee crisis.

Now I’ve completed my degree, I intend to pursue a Masters in Film, Media and Society, and possibly a PGCE at Hope.”

Rebekka Towers, History BA For History graduate Rebekka Towers, University was about more than just achieving a degree.

During her time at Hope, the West Sussex native also completed a Service and Leadership Award, visited India with the Global Hope programme and acted as Vice President of the History and Politics Society.

“I chose Liverpool Hope because I had always wanted to come to university in Liverpool. Hope offered me the best History course and offered an integrated curriculum.

“The support I received, especially from my tutors, was incredible. I was able to speak with them regarding any issues, whether it was regarding my education or personal problems.

Throughout everything I did at Hope, I always felt like there was a support system in place.

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“One highlight of my time at University was going to India with Global Hope. Volunteering abroad had been something that I was always interested in doing; visiting a different country as well as learning new skills and exchanging knowledge, learning about new cultures and societal values.

“My greatest achievement is having been Vice President of the History and Politics Society. The President and I worked hard throughout each term to arrange a wide range of events, including a debate on the EU referendum, which featured local politicians and students supporting both Leave and Remain. The Society also won society of the Year 2015/16!

“I hope to continue my education by undertaking a masters here at Hope, whilst working as a Graduate Advocate for Student Recruitment.”

Amie Du Buisson Spargo, Drama BA First Class Drama student Amie has been accepted to the same New York acting school where Robert Redford, Grace Kelly and Kim Cattrall perfected their art.

While beating thousands of applicants for one of just 50 international places at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts is an achievement in itself, Amie has done it while living with Gastroparesis – a life-long condition in which the stomach is left completely paralysed.

Amie has to be hooked up to a feeding machine for between 10-15 hours a day and has had more than 20 operations in the last four years, meaning time away from university.

“They looked at other ways that I could be assessed – they even let me film assessments at home while I was recovering from operations.

When it did all get too much, I considered leaving, but my tutor Simon Piasecki convinced me to come back, and said they would look at ways to help me catch up with my work and finish my degree.

I’m so glad that I did.”

Amie is currently looking for sponsors to help her raise the $70,000 she needs to start her course in in New York in September 2017.

“If it is meant to be, it is meant to be. I’ve done the hard bit – I got in. Now I’m going to put all of my energies into getting there.”

She said: “My tutors have been amazing.

Jordan Walton, Computing BA Computing graduate Jordan Walton not only achieved a First Class Degree, but also scooped the Prize for the Best Performing Student in Computer Science.

“The highlight of my time at Liverpool Hope ties in with my greatest achievement. One of the pieces of coursework for the final year required us to write a journal article about a new idea, building on existing published research in the area, and follow guidelines for the presentation.

“When I provided a draft to my tutor, he asked if I would be up for submitting it to a conference to see if it would be accepted for publication.

We submitted it to the Second International Conference on Systems Informatics, Modelling and Simulation and it was accepted. It’s easily both my greatest achievement thus far, and

the highlight of my time at university if not life.

“For the most part, I tried to get work done without additional help from tutors, but if help was needed, they’d do their best to ensure I understood what was required and knew how to proceed. This extended outside of teaching hours, with tutors available during lunch breaks, before and after lectures sometimes, and even responding to emails at times I would not have expected a prompt response.

“Having achieved a First Class degree, I’m now seeking employment in the IT sector in the hope of fully utilising the skills I have learnt. I intend to undertake a Master’s in the future, after I’ve gained some real world experience, and would love to study at Hope if they’ll have me back.”

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Geeta Khetrapal (BSc Psychology) Geeta, who is from Kanpur in India, studied Psychology for two years at Christ University Bangalore, and came to Liverpool Hope to complete her final year as part of our student exchange programme.

After graduation, Geeta will volunteer for two months in the Himalayas, where she will teach subjects including English Language, Environmental Awareness and Law to children between the ages of 8-16.

environments so that you can understand the different circumstances that people may face. Doing a degree has made me realise that I want to be part of something bigger than my own self. Volunteering is just the start of that.

Geeta said: “There are a number of border disputes in the area of the Himalayas where I will be teaching, which the children will have experienced first-hand. My job will be to help them understand what these issues mean for them in their everyday life, and make sense of what is going on around them. Teaching there will help me truly understand what their world is, and what they have to go through to even afford the basic necessities of life. It’s a great opportunity to expand my horizons, learn about their culture, standard of life, the social struggles, and how the politics between two nations impact on people’s everyday lives.

“I have really enjoyed my experience at Liverpool Hope.

The people, the culture and the professors have all been fantastic. I have found my tutors to be very supportive.

Carol Crawford and Wendy Bignold from the International Team made me feel really welcome, and they have done a fantastic job organising trips that allow international students to experience British culture and to see different parts of the country.

“My ultimate goal is to use the skills I have gained from my Psychology degree to pursue a career in counselling.

I think it is important to expose yourself to lot of different 20

“I have made connections, which otherwise I would never have, met international students from all around the world and I am truly proud to be a part of Hope. I would especially like to thank Professor Pillay for giving me the opportunity, he has been a great support throughout my stay”.

Lauren Wilson, Primary Teaching with Geography BA QTS Seizing opportunities ensures Primary Teaching with Geography BA QTS graduate Lauren Wilson has a head start in her teaching career.

“My degree has enabled me to develop into a reflective practitioner. There have been endless opportunities like BUPA PE Training, First Aid, Makaton, Dyslexia training, guided reading training, as well as CCRS courses available, which have greatly enhanced my development as a trainee teacher. Teaching practice has been at the heart of my course, and I feel like I have had the best experience available before starting as a newly qualified teacher in September.

“My greatest achievements mainly lie within my final year of study, although I have taken part in a range of opportunities throughout my four years, my final year enabled me to reap the benefits of all my hard work. From leading a Physical Education lecture for PGCE students, to receiving a Service and Leadership Award, these achievements have both been very proud moments, as they have recognised the additional voluntary commitments I have balanced alongside my degree.

“I chose Hope for the small, friendly and community based impressions I got when I interviewed. The University was able to accommodate everything you need as a student starting University, and there was a degree for everyone. Although Primary Teaching was my main degree, I was given the option of completing a double honours course and studying Geography as well, which has enhanced my career opportunities.

“Throughout my four-year course there have been a range of highlights and developments, in particular when I accepted my first teaching post at Hope Partner school, St Paschal Baylon Primary, after only having one teaching interview.

The tutors and lecturers within the Education cohort have been preparing us from day one to become outstanding teachers. This has helped immensely when completing final placements and university based assignments, as well as applying for a teaching post.

“Hope tutors are known for their ‘round the clock’ support this is undoubtedly true. All of the staff - from the teaching cohort to the library - have provided support where needed.

There has never been a problem too small for them to deal with. This breaks down barriers between students and staff and creates a great learning environment.”

What our graduates said Christopher Walker, School Direct “I came to Hope through the School Direct partnership alliance and have a job lined up at a school in North Halifax for September. I may use my credits towards a Master’s in something Education related in the future.”

Sarah Pawley, History MA “I completed my History BA at Hope and decided to stay on and complete a Masters. Field trips have definitely been one of the highlights, I got to visit lots of local sites, as well as Ireland, Berlin and Madrid.”

Jason Laird, PGCE Primary “I’d heard about the course back home in Donegal, and now plan to stay in Liverpool. I start a job at St Christopher’s Catholic Primary School in September.”

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What our graduates said Liam Regan, Business Management

Sandra-Jane Lewis-Beckett, MA Education and Education Leadership and Management

“I’m from Liverpool and wanted to stay close to home for university. Hope was my first choice as it seemed much more personal than the larger local universities. I’m made up to be finishing, and graduating is definitely the highlight of my student days.”

Jessica White, Creative and Performing Arts “My university highlight has been meeting people I would never have otherwise met. The past three years have gone really quick and I’m looking forward to my next step, which is a teacher training course starting in September.”

Jane Doherty, PGCE Primary “I completed my Undergraduate BA in Early Childhood and Education at Hope and knew I wanted to stay on to complete a PGCE. It was a tough year, but I loved the placements and feel sad to be saying goodbye to my student days.”

Hannah Moss, English Language “I’m thrilled to have been awarded the Department of English Prize for the Best Performing Single Honours Student in English Language. The Department is really close knit, and it feels like a thank you from the staff for my efforts as a member of the student and staff liaison committee.”

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“Having been involved in educational leadership and management for a number of years, I decided to look for a course that would provide me with more ‘tools’ to enable to me to be a more effective and productive Headteacher.

“The MA course provided a perfect mix of theory and practical application. At undergraduate level, I had been used to lecture halls with over 300 students, but at Hope, the focus was on an individualised learning experience, supported by excellent subject leaders and tutors. The support provided by the librarians and learning mentors was outstanding.

“Having worked in UK schools for over 10 years, I never considered

an international career, but talking to students from across the globe widened my horizons, and last summer - as I prepared for my dissertation - I relocated to the Middle East to run the academic programme for a large specialist science academy, focusing on girls’ education.

Unfortunately, I was diagnosed with secondary cancer in February of this year, and had to return to Liverpool.

“Despite hospital stays and treatments, the support I received from Hope and my tutor meant that I still completed and submitted my dissertation, and was awarded an MA with distinction. I now hope to carry on my studies at Hope at doctoral level, as I feel I have become part of the Hope ‘family’.”

Beyond Graduation

Your relationship with Hope doesn’t end when you graduate.

We are here to offer you career support, celebrate your success and help you stay in touch with friends and tutors.

Employability As a Liverpool Hope graduate you still have access to all of our careers and employability services, which include Careers Express and Careers Appointments. Careers Express is a drop-in service in The Employability Hub, (based in the Hope Park Gateway Building). You can speak to a Careers Adviser without needing to book, and slots usually last around 15 minutes – perfect for quick queries and signposting (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 10:30am12:30pm).

You can also book a 45-minute in-depth career advice and planning session. If you don’t live locally, don’t worry, as telephone and Skype appointments are available. To book, just contact careers@hope.ac.uk.

My Careers Centre online portal: This free resource gives you access to career tutorials, 1500+ employer insight videos, a CV builder and a powerful job search engine. Just contact careers@hope.ac.uk to get your graduate login and then you can access it via the Hope website.

Still looking for graduate-level work? Seeking relevant paid work experience? Not sure what your next step should be? Look no further! Liverpool Hope University gives fantastic opportunities to recent graduates to secure paid experience via internships. The Hope Internship Programme (HIP) gives you the opportunity to complete a challenging and rewarding internship within a regional business, or right here at Hope. HIP internships will be available from October 2016. The Employability Hub will contact you with the exciting opportunities, information sessions and eligibility criteria. Keep an eye on your university email to stay up to date.

Employer workshops: Local and national employers from all sectors host weekly workshops in The Employability Hub to promote local and part time work, placements at home and abroad, work experience and graduate opportunities.

Recruitment fairs: We host a number of fairs each year, each with a different focus and designed to help graduates find work and learn from industry insiders. These will be advertised in the Events Diary on My Careers Centre.

Stay up to date by making sure that the careers team has your latest contact details and by visiting www.facebook. com/HopeUniCareers. The page is also updated with information on local and national opportunities, including part-time jobs and graduate schemes. www.hope.ac.uk/careers

Alumni Network As a Hope alumni, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: Library access, regular alumni bulletins (with news about the University, networking opportunities and free public events), bi-annual copy of Hope Life magazine, and various discounts.

Visit www.hope.ac.uk/alumni to make sure you are taking advantage of all the services and benefits on offer. If you have an offer that you would like to promote to Liverpool Hope alumni please get in touch.

Alumni, staff and student quiz nights: Now a firm fixture in the Hope calendar, these quiz nights take place once a term and are a great way to catch up with fellow alumni and staff. Held in Our Place, there are cash prizes on offer for the winning teams. Look out for dates in the alumni bulletin and Hope Facebook page www. facebook.com/LiverpoolHopeUniversity. www.hope.ac.uk/alumni 23

LIVERPOOL’S INTERNATIONAL ARTS VENUE

WHAT’S ON Autumn Season 2016 Full listings www.thecapstonetheatre.com

Milapfest presents Evening Ragas

Tina May and Enrico Pieranunzi

Saturday 1st October 7.30pm £12 (£10 concession)

Friday 7th October 7.30pm £11.50

Dean Friedman

Sean Foran

Saturday 8th October 7.30pm £27.50

Tuesday 11th October 7.30pm £11.50

Liverpool Mozart Orchestra:

Immersion Theatre presents Journey’s End

Germanic Greats Saturday 15th October 7.30pm, £15

Tuesday 18th October 7.30pm £12 (£10 concession)

(£13.50 Senior Citizens, £5 students, Under 16 and accompanied by an adult free)

The Breath

The Yoruba Women Choir

Tuesday, 25th October 7.30pm £11.50

Friday, 28th October 7.30pm £20 (£17.50 concessions)

TicketQuarter Handling Fee of £2.25 per order applies when booking online or by phone. There is no Handling Fee when buying tickets with cash from the TicketQuarter Box Office, Queens Square Centre, Queens Square, Liverpool L1 1RG.

BOX OFFICE 0844 8000 410

www.ticketquarter.co.uk capstonetheatre 24

@capstonetheatre